Nose

Rich in character and complexity, our 2008 Merlot offers a remarkable bounty of aromas including blueberry and
luscious cherry-berry fruit, touched with nuances of cola, cinnamon bark and bay leaf.

Palate

Equally delightful as the nose is
the excellently constructed palate, which opens with bright pomegranate, cherry pie and dried cranberry flavors that
endure through the finish, echoing notes of vanilla, toasty oak and spiced chai.

Growing Conditions

The 2008 vintage was extremely variable, opening with an intense frost that resulted in limited fruit set,
then proceeding to be one of the driest seasons on record which reduced berry weight further. A long, cool summer
allowed flavors to develop fully before a heat wave encouraged prompt picking.

Harvest

The small but flavorful clusters were
night-harvested mid September and underwent our rigorous sorting process prior to being destemmed into tank. 13
days of extended maceration.

Bottling

Bottling in May 2010.

Aging

The wine aged for 16 months in a combination of 30% new French and American
oak barrels.

Food Pairing

Possessing the roundness and structure that it does, this Merlot would show well alongside a rich and flavorful meal,
such as a lamb shank stew or tagliatelle Bolognese. For a wonderful cheese course, try it with a hard, aged cheese like
Asiago d’Avello or Mimolette.